Courtois back and Belgium is looking to turn the page on ‘Courtoisgate’
The appointment of Rudi Garcia as the new coach this year paved the way for Courtois’ returnThe 32-year-old goalie was picked for the Nations League playoff doubleheader against UkraineBRUSSELS: Thibaut Courtois is back with Belgium after a 21-month absence and the Red Devils are hoping the Real Madrid goalkeeper’s return will herald the start of a new era for the national team after a lean spell.Courtois abruptly left the team in June 2023 ahead of a European Championship qualifier after falling out with Belgium’s then-coach, Domenico Tedesco. Their feud, which began over a captaincy dispute and was dubbed “Courtoisgate,” quickly escalated and damaged their relationship beyond repair.The appointment of Rudi Garcia as the new coach this year paved the way for Courtois’ return.
